Stuffed Banana Peppers With Cream Cheese And Bacon
Stuffed banana peppers with cream cheese and bacon are an appetizer that will impress everyone at your next gathering. They're tasty, easy to make and a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables. The combination of creamy cream cheese and crispy bacon with the slightly spicy kick of banana peppers makes this dish irresistible. Here's how to make stuffed banana peppers with cream cheese and bacon.
Ingredients
- 6-8 large banana peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut off the tops of the banana peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, bacon, green onions, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
- Stuff each pepper with the cream cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Variations
The beauty of stuffed banana peppers is that they are incredibly versatile. Here are some variations you can try:
- Use different types of cheese, like feta or blue cheese, instead of cheddar.
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cream cheese mixture for added protein.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding chopped mushrooms or spinach to the cream cheese mixture.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Conclusion
Stuffed banana peppers with cream cheese and bacon are a perfect appetizer or snack that will leave your guests wanting more. They are easy to make and infinitely customizable, so you can experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect combination. Whether you're entertaining friends or just want a tasty and healthy snack, stuffed banana peppers with cream cheese and bacon are sure to be a hit.